October 24, 2017 (San Diego) - Shari Sharifi Brown, born and raised in Iran, has written a provocative book on Theology and Religion, The 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity, that on th

e surface, might also appear controversial. It has been an accepted fact that The Ten Commandments were given to Moses by God on Mount Sinai. Therein lies the rub, seemingly a contradiction to an accepted fact or notion.

Faith and religion is a deeply personal experience, certainly open to individual interpretation, and in this instance and the author’s book, I give all deference to her views and how she came to her conclusions.

With that in mind, and having written more than 200 book reviews of basically every conceivable genre, several of which of a religious or theological tone, such as Debra M. Pratt’s The Tempting, Vincent Bugliosi’s Divinity of Doubt: The God Question, Sam Warren’s The Bible: The Greatest Fraud Ever Told, Cortina Jackson’s On Earth as it is in Hell and Shaunte’ Garrett’s Speak to My Life, I vowed to never again write a review with a Biblical or religious theme. Obviously, I feel compelled to change that stance with Shari Sharifi Brown’s book, and for a variety of reasons.

In 1967, the author came to America from Iran to study. After exploring different universities in the United States, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in engineering from California State University, Los Angeles. She would later return to Iran in 1975/1976, working as a structural engineer for the Iranian government's ministry of war with Hughes Aircraft on a project they had with the Shah of Iran, until the revolution happened, and the project was stopped.

It is very revealing that the author starts her book off by recalling her early life in Iran, and as she states; “What the Iranian Revolution Taught Me.” She specifically stated: “I’m a Christian. I was raised in Iran as a Shiite Muslim. And I am married to an American Jewish man. Back in 1979 my world totally collapsed. All I had worked for and enjoyed in my life was threatened. Religious fanatics had taken over my country, upending everything for me and millions of other Iranians. It was enough to turn anyone against religion.”

As a backdrop to this book, it is important to note and reveal the author’s initial upbringing in Iran, as she states: “The shah of Iran had been king of my country since he returned to the throne in 1953 as a friend of America. Many people in Iran, including my family, enjoyed numerous freedoms and privileges under his reign. We could dress the way we wanted to, run our businesses, be religious or not according to our wishes. It is true that there were many poor people in Iran and the shah’s security services tortured some political opponents who sought to overthrow him. The shah was constantly on the lookout for religious fanatics who wanted to take over the country and impose their religious views and practices on everyone. And that was exactly what happened in the end.”

Perhaps what also shaped the author’s current viewpoint, and in a poignant passage in this book, is when she states additionally: “Every day people were being executed, with bodies hanging from cranes in the middle of the street. My father-in-law at the time, a leading industrialist and a member of the shah’s parliament, was imprisoned. Daily life became a nightmare as the fanaticism of the new rulers was imposed on everyone in the cruelest ways, and when you least expected it.” This was after the shah was replaced by what the author describes as a “fearsome man”, a religious dictator by the name of Ayatollah Khomeini, who she also says he started calling America the great Satan.

The author describes The 7 Commandments as taking the reader on a journey through the history of religion to discover the key principles for achieving happiness and prosperity.

Her journey begins in prehistoric times when she says men worshipped multiple false idols, and sacrificed animals, humans and even children to please these gods. She further indicates that while the great Commandments of Moses were a revolutionary act of liberation, the Israelites did not always follow them and suffered the consequences.

Sharifi Brown states in this book that The simplified Commandments of Jesus made them easier to follow, but wickedness in the name of Christianity by the clergy and average Christians supervened, further stating that the Arabs were still worshipping multiple gods when they came in contact with Jews and Christians, and that Muhammad learned of their sole God and brought these Commandments to his people but many Muslims went astray.

Sharifi Brown further states that The Seven Commandments illustrates the fortunes of those who decide to be inspired by grace to follow the Commandments and achieve inner and outer peace … or the misfortunes of those who flout the law and suffer the consequences.

In a recent interview with the author at her beautiful home in Malibu, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, which she shares with her husband of over twenty-five years, Ed Brown, one of Hollywood’s most successful music producers and today a financial leader of international renown, the obvious question had to be asked by me. I felt compelled, and actually asked the author twice; “why 7 Commandments as opposed to the 10 Commandments that Moses received from God on Mount Sinai?” I further asked if somehow the 10 Commandments were deficient, and she indicated that they did not address a particular Commandment of the Prophet Mohammad, that of “Ward the Evil”, or further explained by the author: “Remember the more you stay away from evil, the farther away evil gets from you. Anger, jealousy and animosity only show the existence of evil. Don’t catch the virus, ignore it and pass it by.”

During the course of my interview with the author at her home, we covered a range of subjects related to her book and religion. As the Prophet Mohammad seemed to have been one of the central theme in her book, and the author had her initial experience as a practicing Muslim in Iran, I inquired about Salman Rushdie’s book The Satanic Verses. The author demonstrated her knowledge on the subject by indicating that Mohammad was alleged to have consorted with a prostitute in the book by Rushdie, which raised the ire of Ayatollah Khomeini, which resulted in a fatwa (religious/legal judgement) dictated by Ayatollah Khomeini.

The author points out as follows her 7 Commandments:

Believe in the one God. Have total obedience to the Supreme Power and pray to Him every day. Know that He is the Creator of the seen and the unseen.

Ward the evil. Remember the more you stay away from evil, the farther away evil gets from you. Where there is anger, jealousy, animosity, there evil exists. Don’t catch the virus. Ignore and pass it by.

Believe in the hereafter. Know that because of the flow of energy in the universe, everything has to balance in the end.

Be a charitable giver. If you don’t have the money, be charitable with your time – inconvenience yourself (go visit the sick, go visit the grandfather you never have time to visit).

Honor your parents. I cannot tell you the importance of this commandment. It is not up to you to judge if they are worthy or not of your honor. Do it because you are in the mode of a sixty-six-day practice, and this is part of fulfilling your commandment.

Pray continuously. Be always in a prayer mode. The Qur’an says that only if you don’t observe the Sabbath, do five daily prayers. At the end of the Qur’an, 73 says that if the days are long and you are working during a long day, then you do your prayers at night. Thus, between the three prophets, the message is to pray morning, noon and night, or to be always in prayer mode.

In reading the author’s 7 Commandments, and despite my face to face interview with her at her home, and phone and email communications, I remain puzzled as to if she is writing these 7 Commandments as a Muslim or Christian. She professes to now being a Christian, but these 7 Commandments conflicts and contradicts those Christian beliefs, as well as my own. The author further explains and clarifies her thoughts and position in a radio interview here.

Ironically, the author’s husband, Ed Brown, would indicate in his foreword to The 7 Commandments, “The very famous prosecutor, Vincent Bugliosi came to my home for dinner”, the same home in where I conducted the interview with the author. The irony is that many years ago I interviewed Vincent Bugliosi and wrote a review of his book Divinity of Doubt: The God Question for the East County Magazine in San Diego.

It is also interesting to note that in my interview of Bugliosi many years ago, he tried hard to sway me to his way of thinking about God, that of an agnostic. He was unsuccessful!

Ed Brown stated in his foreword to his wife’s book: “Little did I know that he, too, was a scholar of the Bible, and so Shari and Bugliosi began to debate what was (to me) more than the New Testament but rather how the New Testament was written (i.e., the words of Paul and Peter and others, such as the Roman architect and warrior, Constantine). Constantine, as she explained, finally felt “if you can’t fight them because they outnumber you too much, join them and take control.”’

Ed Brown further stated in his foreword to the author’s book: “Bugliosi argued and argued that this was not the case, so together they researched and, sure enough, Shari was right.”

The author indicates in her book, that she is a Christian, but that she was raised in Iran as a Shiite Muslim, and that she married an American Jewish man. Obviously, she has a broad range of religious experience and insight. She also has a wealth of knowledge in history, as demonstrated in this book.

Sharifi Brown, the author, states in regard to “The Three Religions of Abraham”; “I’ve condensed the three religions of Abraham to their core: the combined commandments of Moses, Jesus, and Mohammad, arguably history’s most vital men. They walked this earth centuries, even a millennia ago, but they still profoundly impact our lives. Following their three scriptures simple combined commandments can lead to a better, healthier life here and in the hereafter. I emphasize in this life because these are extremely practical commandments that are easy to understand and easy to follow – if you have faith.”

For the most part, this book by Sharifi Brown takes us on a rich historical journey through many civilizations over the years, which I am sure readers of this book would be appreciative of, whether or not they might agree with the theological and religious premise given. Also, if we are open minded, it should teach us tolerance in others and their faith and beliefs, without having to sacrifice or compromise our own.

The author has relied on history in an attempt to get her point across in The 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity, which compelled this writer to delve into history also. In a book by J. Kenneth Kuntz, The People of Ancient Israel: An Introduction to Old Testament Literature, History, and Thought (Harper & Row, New York, NY, 1974, puts this book by Sharifi Brown in perspective.

The People of Ancient Israel specifically states: "This book is an introduction to an ancient literature that has played a crucial role in the development of three great religions of the Western world - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It seeks especially to acquaint the reader, who more often than not will be an undergraduate college or university student, with the people who gave birth to that literature, and it portrays their origins, growth, demise, and renewal in some detail."

J. Kenneth Kuntz, in his book The People of Ancient Israel, further states and puts in perfect perspective this book by Sharifi Brown: "The need for secondary texts in the field of biblical studies is therefore authentic. Although it is largely answered by numerous Old Testament surveys that are presently available, the need for another is not a fiction. Certainly the accumulating findings based on contemporary scholarly research deserve to be passed on in an uncomplicated manner to the interested layman. But the question of how the biblical traditions are best communicated to inquiring nonspecialists has never been fully resolved." That would apply to The 7 Commandments.

In one particular chapter, “The Failure of Christianity”, the author Sharifi Brown states: “While Jesus’s life is most important, Christians seem to focus more on his death. A core Christian belief is that Jesus’s crucifixion was a blood sacrifice that cleansed all sin in history: he took all sin onto himself, which was destroyed with his death.” As a Christian, I feel uncomfortable debating that point with the author. I can only say and acknowledge what Jesus has done for me in my life.

In another chapter, “How the Jews Went Astray”, the author states: “King Solomon was much less wise in his personal life, however. With so much money and power at hand, he succumbed to a weakness for women. Many women. The book of 1 Kings says he had seven hundred wives and three hundred concubines. Many of these women were not Israelites. They were Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites. And what religion did these women follow? The religion we outlined in the beginning of this book: idolatry, polytheism, and human sacrifice.” To amplify the point, the author includes at the beginning of this chapter, a picture of King Solomon meeting the Queen of Sheba.

Brown, the author, provides a very profound statement and passage in this book, which bears analyzing: “What you can never do is impose your theology, customs, or beliefs on someone else. If you do, we’ve got a problem. A big problem. To follow the commandments of this book, we have to put our religion aside. We can privately believe what we want. We can worship wherever we want. But this should take second place to the universal principles discussed in this book: the seven commandments. Remember, religion divides people. God unites people.” I am all for religious tolerance, but I am struggling with this concept!

The 7 Commandments begs the question, if the foundation of the Christian faith and religion is the 10 Commandments, how can we as Christians settle for less, or the 7 Commandments? I do not believe that it is or was the author's intent to marginalize God or His 10 Commandments for her to write this book called The 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity.

Clearly, the author has found "Happiness and Prosperity", and she shares it with others less fortunate in her charitable foundation. For instance, her feeding of 800 people every Thanksgiving and her charitable giving in the Phillippines and the Congo.

For focus and perspective, it is noteworthy to reference in the Bible the 2nd Chapter of Philippians, verses 10-11, which states: “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

This book is food for thought, as it either strengthens your faith and convictions, and/or it broadens your understanding and appreciation of history. This food for thought is best demonstrated and understood in the context of Deuteronomy 4:2, which states:"You shall not add to the word I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you." New American Standard Bible (NASB).

Dennis Moore has been the Associate Editor of the East County Magazine in San Diego and the book review editor of SDWriteway, an online newsletter for writers in San Diego that has partnered with the East County Magazine, as well as having been a freelance contributor to EURweb based out of Los Angeles. Mr. Moore can be contacted at contractsagency@gmail.com or you can follow him on Twitter at: @DennisMoore8.

Comments

The author makes the era of the shah sound idyllic when in reality, religious Muslims were persecuted for fear that they would shut down the government, as they eventually did. Religious fanatics did take over the country, but the supporters were often moderate Muslims, even atheists and Jews, who didn't foresee that Iran would become the Islamic Republic. My family also escaped Iran and worked for the shah (Please see my memoir, Writing and Madness in a Time of Terror.), however, I will not belittle the lack of support for Israel by the majority and the surveillance state Iran had become. It was religious profiling.

THE GOD QUESTION REVISITED... "The 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity"
Unfortunately, success and prosperity are often depreciated today. But I know and believe we may safely assume that the Lord who created us, being intelligent, designed us to function efficiently and well.
Therein is my excitement of having the honor and privilege to share my insight and perusal of several chapters of the subject Book Review. I initially had the same questions as Mr. Dennis Moore; Why 7 Commandments as opposed to 10 Commandments that Moses received from God on Mount Sinai? Having met the Author, Mrs. Shari Sharifi Brown at her Malibu Estate & Book Signing, along with her Husband, Mr. Edward G. Brown who wrote the Foreword; not only is he a Biblical Scholar; but one of Hollywood's Most Successful Businessmen. I could clearly see why the book, the foreword, and the book review read like an Action Packed-Thriller! I felt like I was reading the Book of Mark... I agreed with what psychologically the book will do for any reader of any faith... Clearly Mrs. Brown's Faith and Religious experience of "The Three Religions of Abraham" is the core of her book. As I read Mr. Dennis Brown Book Review; I more so agreed with him concerning "The Failure of Christianity" chapter... As a Christian... "I Can Only Say What Jesus Has Done In My Life"... just to be able to be present at "The Brown's" Malibu Estate... I KNEW GOD DID IT! Ephesians 3:20... Please Stay tuned as I finished this page-turner of what I hope to be on Your Reading List Now... Again This One with Grow Your Faith & Strengthen You at Your Core! I am reminded of The very first Psalm; Blessed it assures us, is the man who meditates on God's words day and night. In contrast to the scornful, negative person, such a man or woman will endure like a sturdy, fruitful tree, "...and whatever he does shall prosper."

Thank you Terence for your kind comments! It is obvious by your attached picture with Sheryl Turner that you were enlightened and enjoyed yourself at the recent book signing in Malibu at the author's home.

Mr. Dennis Moore It is indeed a pleasure to always learn from your wisdom and mentoring on becoming a better writer and Ambassador of Christ... what an incredible “book signing” to experience while have serving The Lord!

...at the book signing! Shari, from what it looked like, it was a resounding success. I just read Dennis's wonderful review of your husband's book and I am now convinced that both of your books and what the espouse are absolutely imperative for people to have access to. I believe, especially for young people at this time in our history, because of lack of spirituality and the belief that one must spend precious time working predominantly for monetary gain, they need a wider audience. I have had some inspiring thoughts about how one could do this and hope that one day soon I will have the opportunity to speak with both you and your husband about them. Many blessings to you both.

I understand this "Seven Commandments for Prosperity and Happiness," but the best commandment is number seven - always be praying. If you practice this commandment you will be in a continual state of enlightenment and joy. Thank you Mrs. Brown for opening my eyes and my heart.
Sheryl Turner

What Better Way to Say It... "Praying All The Time..." Thanks again Ms. Sheryl Turner for being the Fabulous Diva You Know You are In Jesus Name... Keep Moving and Shaking Dear... and of Course... "Praying All The Time!" Alicia and I are Blessed To Be Invited & Share Such Courageous Acts of Service to Mankind on Behalf of Our Lord and Savior!!! #trw

After reading the book review on the 7 Commandments of Happiness and Prosperity, I'm compelled to write this comment at 3:24 am Est Sunday morning.
These Commandments resonate me because they are principals I have learned to practice in my life as a mother who raised 4 children without all the benefits of their fathers. These 7 Commandments are good for my soul.
But 3,5,6,and 7 resonate with me the most as I reflect.
#3.Believe in the hereafter. Know that because of the flow of energy in the universe, everything has to balance in the end.
**This principle helped me to keep being happy and prosperous after my brother recently and suddenly went on to glory to be with the Lord a few months ago. His death was easier to accept knowing there is life after death.
#4Be a charitable giver. If you don’t have the money, be charitable with your time – inconvenience yourself.
**This principle helps me NOW in my business to be happy and prosperous because when I don't have the capital to start a project, I do have resources and time to give others to help them.
#6Honor your parents. I cannot tell you the importance of this commandment. It is not up to you to judge if they are worthy or not of your honor. Do it because you are in the mode of a sixty-six-day practice, and this is part of fulfilling your commandment.
**I'm not really sure what a sixty-six-day practice is, (I'll do my researcher to find out).
As a young girl, I wanted to do right by my parents because I believed in This principle to my core. I knew it pleases God to honor and obey your parents. I wanted God to bless me with long life here on Earth. I teach my children to honor and respect me and their fathers no matter what. It is a true blessing that both of my parents are stilling living healthy.
#7Pray continuously. Be always in a prayer mode.
**Prayer has been my secret to success in all areas of my life I get recognized in. Prayer is powerful and has kept my connection with God close. Prayer allows my heart to open more to the love of God.
I can relate to her strong passion for others to connect with the love of God no matter what.
And remembering how her husband Mr. Ed Brown described her in the foreword of the book, she went the extra mile to prove what she knew when challenged with a very famous prosecutor.
His name was Vincent Bugliosi. She let him know she knew her history of religion by saying about Constantine, as she explained...finally felt “if you can’t fight them because they outnumber you too much, join them and take control."
I enjoyed reading the book review of the 7 Commandments of Happiness and Prosperity. I can see myself reading the actual book. I see that it is available amazon.
Thanks so much for this time to share my thoughts.
My Best Alway,
Vernitra Thomas bka Tweet :-)

Ms. Vernitra Thomas... Mother of 4 & Serial ENTREPRENUER! Ephesians 1:4-5... will echo throughout the Universe... 2018! Continue to fight the Good Fight of FAITH & WORKS! This book is so fitting for GOD TO GET THE GLORY! I pray as you read and share it in your region of the globe it will continue to “enlarge” your territory in Jesus Mighty Name... Godspeed... Mother of 4 & Serial Entreprenuer for Christ...

Thank you Vernitra, I am sure the author will appreciate your comments, especially considering the very successful book signing showcasing her and the book in Malibu last Saturday, December, 30, 2017. The attached photo of her further indicates that.

I went to the Book signing on Saturday December 30, 2017 along with purchasing the book.
I really appreciate meeting Mrs. Brown and learning about her journey.
The 7 Commandments Mrs. Brown wrote about are close to how I was raised as a young Queen with a large vision in Illinois.
Growing up in a very strict Christian household, my parents taught me about a lot of Principles from the Bible which are in alignment of Mrs. Brown's book that are deeply rooted well into my adult life.
1. I would not be here if it were not for God....I have had many miracles that were not manifested because of me only...it is a combination of God, a Faith, belief in self and getting out to actually do the work (Faith & Works). Everything works together like baking a cake, you can not leave the flour out and expect the cake to turn out correctly....just as one is to be successful and is lazy.
2. Being a charitable giver- I learned to tithe at an early age and that comes with the spiritual law of sowing and reaping. Give back to God, and His Children...it will come back to you. We are like a Farmer planting seeds and watering those seeds to reap a harvest.
3. Honor your parents - This is so true. Me and my mom do not see eye to eye in many areas of my life, however, no matter what...I still show respect to her. That is a law/commandment as well...If broken, there will be consequences.
I can go on and on, however, I wanted to hit on several points that were close to home for myself. Blessings to everyone in 2018.

Ms. Alicia Denise Clark... I’m always honored that you are such a Godly Queen and Bible based “Teacher” & “Mentor” to me and so many others you come in contact on a daily basis... continue to let your light shine!!! Ephesians 1:11-12

Thank you Alicia, and thank you for your attendance at the recent book signing in Malibu. It was a pleasure meeting you, and paarticularly for us both being from the Chicago area. I am sure the author appreciates your refernced thoughts and comments, as the attcahed photo of her might indicate. Kind regards, Dennis

MS SHARI IS INDEED A WOMAN OF DEPTH AND EMOTIONAL CHANGE. SHE EXPLAINS HER PAST WITH PASSION, AND THE FUTURE OF HER WORK AS A NEW AND FEARLESS VOICE FOR HUMANITY TO EXPLORE, LEARN AND LIVE BY. ALL SHOULD TAKE HEED WHEN HEARING SOUND DOCTRINE, AND SHARI IS ON POINT.

An Arkansas commission cleared the way to install another Ten Commandments monument outside the state Capital, months after the previous marker was destroyed by an activist who crashed his car into it, according to a story in USA Today.

The Arkansas Capital Arts and Grounds Commission signed off on the final design Tuesday. The monument will include four concrete posts for protection.

Dennis,
A very thorough review of Shari's book. I like the manner in which you did the review, firstly, background information (very detailed) about her studies, life both in America and Iran - under Ayatola Khomeini, her marriage to someone of Jewish faith, and her religious affiliation, followed by your interview of her and her book - 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity.
I actually like the 7 commandments for Happiness and Prosperity, although I grapple with the third commandment "Believe in the hereafter. Know that because of the flow of energy in the universe, everything has to balance in the end." They are all good commandments to live by. I entertain the same question you had, why 7 commandments and not 10? but the author is writing from her perspective and I also realized that the number 7 is often used in many self-help books (I am not sure that this book is self-help).
A great review, I would read this book in order to get another perspective on religion from Shari's standpoint.
Thanks Shari for writing this book and giving us food for thought.
Submitted by Jacqueline Carr - Author of Quiet Thoughts and A Selected Few Just For You.

The author will have a book signing on December 30, 2017 at her home in Malibu, where the proceeds from the sales of her book will go to her charitable foundation. Mrs. Brown's charitable foundation benefits those less fortunate in the Phillipines and the Congo. She also feeds 800 people every Thanksgiving through her charitable giving. Clearly, she exemplifies "Happiness and Prosperity".

I am happy to hear that the book signing for Mrs. Brown's new title was successful. I am also pleased to know that out of her charitable spirit she remembers those in need. Thank you for informing me of this successful event! Best wishes to you also, Dennis for all that you do for so many. -----KB Schaller

Thank you for taking the time to write a comment. As far as the third commandment is concern, I have elaborated on it in the last chapter of the book. I hope you enjoy it. All the Best... God bless you, Shari Brown

I can certainly agree with Mr. Moore's statement that the book gives one food for thought. I grew up as a Catholic being taught never to question the "word." Well, I did question, but never analyzed the teachings. Ms. Brown has simplified them. From reading the review, I am interested in reading the book. Dennis Moore's book reviews are always inspiring.

The book signing for "The 7 Commandments" at the home of the author in Malibu was a resounding success, with the proceeds from the sales going to her charitable foundation, and specifically, "The Amazing Girls". See photo of some of those in attendance here.

Thank you for taking the time to write a comment. As far as the third commandment is concern, I have elaborated in the last chapter of the book. If you have any questions, please let me know.
All the Best... God bless you, Shari Brown

Dear Mr. Moore,
As the author of The Time Bandit Solution: Recovering Stolen Time You Never Knew You Had, which won a coveted Axiom award in the category of “Operations Management, Lean and Continuous Improvement,” and was nominated as an award-winning finalist at the International Book Awards in the category of “Business: Management and Leadership,” I’m familiar with good, strong and weak critiques.
Your critique of The Seven Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity is like none other I’ve ever read.
Here’s why.
It gave the reader an abstract view of the entire book as you literally reviewed all 7 Commandments and while you admitted as a Christian that you found The Seven Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity difficult, you also recognized that Shari had written this book to motivate others to pray more than they might otherwise because the redundancies and repetition, as she explained, were now eliminated.
Your reception to this book was clear to the reader of your review, and at the end each of the readers of your review knew why they should or should not read The Seven Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity.
I’ve never read a review with more heartfelt admiration for the author’s work and more clarity about why!
Congratulations Mr. Moore and, as her manager, I thank you on behalf of Shari Sharifi Brown!
Ed

Ed, you are right, I do have heartfelt admiration for your wife Shari, for in my interview with her I sensed a warmth and love for life of her fellow man and woman, beyond what we read in the book. What really resonated with me, was her growth and triumph over her early upbringing. Praying is an extension of that growth that I felt from her, which seems to be the premise of her book, and the prosperity and happiness that she seems to have found. She is truly a remarkable woman, that I am proud to count as a friend, as well as you.

My faith and baptism actually started here at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, under the tutelage of Bishop Arthur Brazier pictured here.

While at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, I became a member of the Prison Ministry after a tremendous blessing was bestowed on me and my family. Then moving to San Diego, I became the President of the Bethel A.M.E. Prison Ministry for 2 years, ministering to inmates at Donovan Prison. Click on link above to listen to the church choir.

Thank you, Dennis, for such a wonderful review of Ms. Brown's book. The subject of religion is a vast and touchy one and to be able to read this work with an open mind is of utmost importance. I, personally, practice Buddhism but am extremely interested in the developments of the three major religions of the world and the insights Ms. Brown achieved through her vast experience and seeking mind. Nothing like a dictatorial society to bring you nearer to your own attitudes on how to live your life to the fullest and with a sound philosophy. Stacy Thunes Krieger, screenwriter and actor. www.thescriptory.com

... and a lively, well-rounded discussion based on a mutual desire for understanding and peace. From reading your book I am convinced you and I can have such a conversation and surely far more, enriching both our lives in the process! WIshing you many blessings, as well as love and light to you and your family over this holiday season.

As an Iranian woman, married to a Jew and is now a Christian with faith in Jesus Christ, I would say that Mrs. Brown has had a tumultuous journey. I believe that some of us are destined to travel the road of least resistance so that we will have a testimony of true victory in Christ Jesus. Thank you Dennis for this review of The 7 Commandments for Happiness and Prosperity, by Shari Sharifi Brown. I would say that she's an over-comer and her path to happiness and prosperity has not been an easy path. Her varied experiences with three dominant religions in the United States led her to true faith in Jesus (according to her testimony). However, I think she may be lacking in some of the foundational principles and truths about Jesus that puts Him in a class far above Moses and Muhammad. These men could never hold a candle to who Jesus is and what He did to bring true happiness and prosperity into the world. Everyone's journey is unique and individual, and Mrs. Brown's began with Islam that undoubtedly shaped some of her world views about religion. It appears that her book is a good read for those looking to understand the history of these dominant religions, and maybe, just maybe how Jesus will always rule supreme--not as a good man, or a prophet, but as the Son of God, who gave His life for the sins of the world; thus giving everyone an opportunity to true happiness and prosperity, whether it's through 10 commandments, or 7 commandments. Good review.

My cousin in Indiana shared this passage from Deuteronomy 4:2 with me, which is applicable to Shari's book: "You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you."

Dear Fellow Iranian Sister, Married to a Jew,
Thank you for taking the time to write the review and your insights.
Did you hear about the Egyptian Doctor, Rashad Khalifat, who studied and analyzed the Koran for 30 years and proved that the structure of Koran is based upon the number 19 (Alpha & Omega). Unfortunately, not everyone agreed with him and in the end, he was assassinated on account of blasphemy in Tucson, Arizona.
In the same way, the subject of religion and certain aspects are debatable even to the death in some tragic cases as mentioned above.
However, with the same passion that Dr. Khalifat exuded, hopefuly not the same 'fate', I would vow that mathematically all the 3 prophets are cornerstones of a pyramid with Abraham as the capstone. All sides are equal for a balanced universe. An annotation of Koran reads: ''I sent Moses and blessed him with the law. I sent Jesus and blessed him with my Holy Spirit and raised him in my bosom. I blessed Mohammad with the book.'' Wish you all the best, and I hope you will get the opportunity to read my book.
Best Wishes for Happiness & Prosperity Always,
Shari

Although one author that I had earlier written a review of her book is reluctant to weigh in on this controversial subject, due to her expressed reason to me given as a born-again Christian, there are a number of others with different thoughts and perspectives. Also, I am in communication with a screenwriter about developing a screenplay for the purpose of making this into a movie.

Thank you for the review of Ms. Brown's book that no doubt enlightens the reader regarding the author's tumultuous years following the fall of the Shah of Iran and his replacement by the Ayatollah.
I will, however, limit my comments to Ms. Brown's 7 Commandments for Prosperity and Happiness which basically do not differ from what the Christian Bible teaches throughout. It is important to understand that the Bible is a book that interprets itself. It is necessary to read it in its entirety to understand that what Ms. Brown has enumerated is found throughout Scripture stated either plainly or implicitly: “For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:” Isaiah 28:10 KJV. For instance, each of the 7 commandments Ms. Brown lists is contained in Bible Scripture: For instance:
1. Believe in the one God...
(Bible): "I am the Lord your God... You shall have no other gods before Me. (First Commandment)
2. Have total obedience to the Supreme Power and pray to Him every day. Know that He is the Creator of the seen and the unseen.
(Bible): “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” ---2 Corinthians 4:18
3. Believe in the hereafter...
(Bible): And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
---Luke 16:22-26
(Bible): But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me." ---2 Samuel 12:23
4. Don't Steal. ..
(Bible): Thou shalt not commit adultery (7th Commandment) Thou shalt not steal (8th Commandment).
5. Be a charitable giver...
(Bible): Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.--2nd Corinthians 9:7
(Bible): For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.---Matthew 25: 35-40
6.Honor your parents:
(Bible): Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. (5th Commandment)
(7). Ward the evil...Bible: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." --James 4:7.
It is not my intention to cast Ms. Browns list of 7 in a negative light, however in comparing them with Bible teachings, it is clear that as King Solomon states in his wisdom, "there is no new thing under the sun".--Eccl. 1:9.

Dear K.B. Schaller,
Thank you and I believe, when you have the opportunity to read the book, you will see we are on the same page with an added angle.
Best Wishes for Happiness & Prosperity Always,
Shari

Hello Shari. Your response is exactly the points I made. The commandments you state in the title of your book are the same found in text throughout Bible scripture. All best wishes to you as well. -----KB Schaller

Excellent review Dennis as always. We have separation of church and state for the reasons Ms. Brown describes in her book. The excesses done historically in the name of religion are well known. I cannot decide if this book is Christian as the influence of Ms. Brown's prior experiences and the extensive quotes from Mohammed make me wonder. I have no interest in making converts to Christianity as I am not an evangelist and believe that people must decide for themselves what they believe. However. The emphasis on the death of Christ and his Resurrection are the basis of Christianity. He fulfilled the law, The Ten Commandments, as his life was without sin. There was no need for the sacrifice of animals after this ultimate sacrifice of Christ - fully man and fully God. He wrote the ten commandments on our hearts and gave us a heart of flesh to replace our stony hearts. God also gave us free will because he does not want a bunch of robots. Free will means that evil is a possibility. We see examples of it all over and certainly in Christians and would be Christians. He said that He did not come to end divisiveness but that it would continue with families set against each other etc. This we also see. As for honoring parents - some do not deserve honor but can be given forgiveness. I don't believe that any formula can bring happiness and certainly not seven commandments to simplify life. Life is never simple. Sometimes the people who believe the most are hardest hit. The ultimate goal in my mind is peace in all things. I think that the lost message of Christianity is "grace, unmerited favor lest any man should boast" or glory in one's own righteousness. With regards to Solomon and the women, he concluded after trying all things that all is vanity, pointless. So much for all those women. It didn't make him happy. Ecclesiastes 1:14.
MJ Payne, Author, "The Remembered Self: A Jouney into the Heart of the Beast". mjpayneblog.wordpress.com

This is very well stated. We are free to make our own choices. Those who firmly believe in the Bible will continue to do so, while they extend to others the freedom of their own choices as well. -------- KB Schaller

This is a very interesting subject!! Our faith and beliefs are often shaped by our experiences, upbringings, teachings, or circumstances. As I experienced Hell on Earth, it definitely shaped what I felt concerning Hell and God. It was the vivid dreams and visions that led me to believe that there was more than the turmoil that I faced, there was actually a conversation taking place in Hell about what to do with souls on Earth. I wrote the book in a fiction thriller genre, so as not to shape anyone's beliefs, but to intrigue and pique interest in the topic, thus allowing the reader to glean from the story and use it as a great story or a personal reflection. The concept presented in this book written by Shari Sharifi Brown seems to do the same, in that it poses a food for thought as stated by Mr. Dennis Moore. I am a believer and born again Christian and I know personally what God has done for me and delivered me from, which included near death through domestic violence and personal Hell. I am thankful for the choices and freedom of decisions.
Cortina Jackson
Author of "On Earth as It Is In Hell"
www.cortinajackson.com

My cousin in Indiana, after reading my review of "The 7 Commandments", had this to say: "I am fully persuaded that the Word of God needs no debating. It matters not what anyone thinks. What matters is what my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has said."

Hello Dennis. I understand each point of view expressed regarding "The 7 Commandments...". I think the author was courageous to select such a title for her book, as I'm sure she understood that such a choice would likely stir controversy. While it is a time-honored fact that authors are allowed a certain amount of creative license in their works, many if not all who interpret the Bible literally associate any such license regarding the 10 Commandments (and Scripture in general) with tampering with what God Himself wrote and gave to Moses. Based on your review, there is more to the author's story than the title implies, but readers who live by biblical principles may reject any book if the title bears a semblance of re-ordering or rewording such a cornerstone of Judeo-Christian beliefs as the Ten Commandments. ----KB Schaller

Dear Cortina Jackson,
Thank you for sharing your personal experiences that have paved your religious path with me and all readers. I would love a copy of your book.
I wish you only happiness and prosperity from here on forwards.
Best Wishes,
Shari

Thank you so much Shari, I would absolutely love to send you a book! I wish you nothing but the absolute best in life!! May you experience an abundance of prosperity and success.
If you would, please reach out to me on my website, www.cortinajackson.com, and provide me your information, and I will gift you a book my friend!!
Cortina Jackson
Author of "On Earth As It Is In Hell"
www.cortinajackson.com